Deiveson Figueiredo Faces Payton Talbott, Eyes Flyweight Return
Brazilian seeks bantamweight victory to resume title contention in the 57kg division
Deiveson Figueiredo steps into the Octagon against Payton Talbott this Saturday (3) at UFC 332 in Salt Lake City, declaring that a victory will be crucial to bolster his request for a return to flyweight (57 kg). The Brazilian, a two-time champion in the category, aims to resume his pursuit of the belt after having moved to bantamweight (61 kg).
The Showdown Against Payton Talbott
In the co-main event, Figueiredo faces American Payton Talbott, who holds a record of 11 wins and 1 loss. The clash is set as a bout between the ninth-ranked bantamweight and the twelfth-ranked fighter in the same division, according to the official UFC website.
The Request for a Flyweight Return
During the UFC 332 media day, the Brazilian stated that he has been requesting authorization from the UFC to drop back down to 125 pounds and challenge the current champion, Joshua Van. He declared that he makes the weight cut “very easily” and is willing to negotiate immediately with the organization.
Figueiredo's Flyweight History
Figueiredo was a two-time flyweight champion, defeating Alexandre Pantoja in the past and losing the title to Brandon Moreno. He had already left the category in 2023 to compete at bantamweight, but acknowledged that the weight cut was exhausting and that he now works with Brazil's best nutritionist.
Implications of a Victory Over Talbott
A convincing victory against Talbott would place Figueiredo back among the bantamweight contenders and give the UFC a concrete reason to consider his return to flyweight. Should he lose, the request to challenge champion Joshua Van will remain merely a statement made at media day.
What's at Stake at UFC 332
The main card kicks off at 9 PM (Brasília time) with the vacant women's flyweight title fight between Natália Silva and Wang Cong. The duel between Figueiredo and Talbott will be the second most prominent bout of the night, serving as a turning point for the Brazilian's career.
With information from LANCE!, Quinto Quarto.
Source: LANCE!, Quinto Quarto